Pre-contracts aplenty ahead of transfer window

Irish League clubs have been active ahead of the January transfer window reopening

The wrapping isn't even off the festive presents yet, but already Irish League sides have been busy trying to bolster their squads ahead of the reopening of the January transfer window.

The top three sides - Crusaders,Cliftonville and Linfield - have all added to their squad, as a number of clubs believe that they have the funds to strengthen their respective squads.

Cliftonville fended off long-term interest of rivals Linfield and Glenavon to land Warrenpoint Town striker Daniel Hughes, who has been prolific for the County Down side in their three years in the top flight.

The 23-year-old signed a two-and-a-half year deal at Solitude, after having a trial at Bolton Wanderers earlier in the year.

Warrenpoint themselves have lost 17 of their 20 league fixtures this season and have an almighty fight on their hands to avoid relegation. As part of the Hughes deal, both Martin Murray and Johnny McMurray have moved from the Reds to Point on loan deals until the end of the season. Manager Barry Gray has been active in the market since, and attacking options were bolstered further by the arrival of former Glenavon and Cliftonville striker Tiarnan Mulvenna.

Another loan departure for Cliftonville is striker Ciaran Murray, who returns to Larne just three months after leaving the club. He has made nine appearances for Cliftonville, and will join fellow Solitude loanees Guillaume Keke and Conall McGrandles at Larne.

Cliftonville's North Belfast rivals and current league leaders and title holders Crusaders have secured the signing of David Cushley, who has a habit of netting spectacular goals, from Ballymena United. The winger will sign a three-year deal at Seaview, and the Crues beat off stiff competition from Linfield for his signature.

One man that Linfield have signed is Cork City full-back Ross Gaynor, who joins the Blues on an 18-month deal.

The former Republic of Ireland youth international has a wealth of League of Ireland experience with Dundalk, Sligo Rovers and Cork City, and will hope to play a major part in David Healy's rejuvenation of the Linfield squad.